Vacancies continue to decline, but firms must not allow for complacency

With the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) data revealing that the UK’s vacancy rates have started to decline Insert data once released, leading background screening and identity services firm, Sterling has stressed that firms must no’t get complacent in their hiring efforts.

According to the firm, while vacancies are on a downwards trajectory, demand for talent remains rife, with the jobs market still very much in the candidate’s favour. While skills remain in short supply, firms hoping to secure top talent should avoid cutting corners, with data from Sterling strongly suggesting that neglecting screening methods can be damaging to long-term hiring. The firm’s latest research report ‘Hiring Reimagined’, revealed that 22% of job applicants considered dropping out due to issues with the background screening process.

While performing correct and thorough screening methods on candidates is mandatory in most roles, recent news of Jon Andrewes, a former NHS chief executive, who was jailed after lying about his PhD and previous experience suggests that basic screening requirements may be getting overlooked.

Steve Smith, President of International at Sterling, comments:

“It’s crucial that we do not lose sight of the basics when it comes to employment screening regardless of the hiring trends across the UK. As we have seen from recent news, the implication poor screening can have on businesses is significant. In fact, the Supreme Court has now ruled that CV fraudsters must pay back at least part of their wages if they are caught falsifying qualifications and experience to an employer. While this targets those caught committing the act, it is also extremely detrimental to the employer. With a possible recession in the not-so-distant future and the skills gap continuing to widen and competition for talent increasing, now is definitely not the time to risk damaging your employer brand through incomplete or inefficient hiring processes.

“While thorough screening is often thought of as time-consuming, mMaking the switch to Digital Identity will be a critical component towards speeding up the screening process and making it simpler for all parties. It’s essential that firms familiarise themselves with digital Right to Work checks, especially as from October 1st, all UK businesses are advised to use government certified Identity Service Providers (IDSPs) to complete digital Right to Work checks.”

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